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NFL Draft 2017: 10 biggest sleepers from non-Power Five schools

By Zach Bigalke

Mar 6, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; San Diego State defensive back Damontae Kazee runs the 40 yard dash during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 6, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; San Diego State defensive back Damontae Kazee runs the 40 yard dash during the 2017 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Boise State Broncos running back Jeremy McNichols (13) stiff arms Baylor Bears cornerback Grayland Arnold (4) in the first quarter during the Cactus Bowl at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Boise State Broncos running back Jeremy McNichols (13) stiff arms Baylor Bears cornerback Grayland Arnold (4) in the first quarter during the Cactus Bowl at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Certain Group of Five schools seem to have a knack for turning underrecruited talent into NFL sleepers. Boise State has been a factory for running backs in recent years, with both Doug Martin and Jay Ajayi demonstrating an ability to produce at the next level.

The next great tailback to come out of the Mountain West powerhouse, Jeremy McNichols, could be even more versatile in a pro offense thanks to his adeptness in the passing game. McNichols finished fifth in the FBS in all-purpose yards despite rarely participating on special teams.

McNichols offers teams a threat as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. He finished his last year in college with 27 touchdowns and nearly 2200 yards from scrimmage as Boise State completed another 10-win season. In a conference with several great backs (look out as well for Brian Hill from Wyoming, who just missed this list), McNichols has been the top scorer in the Mountain West each of the past two years.

Related Story: 2017 NFL Mock Draft: Complete first round edition

Though he is only 5-foot-9 he carries 215 pounds on his frame, and should provide a durable option for teams searching for rushing sleepers.

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